EVENTS

 

Move Down the Block Party by Diane
 
I just want to write this little piece about the fun lunch that I had at the new OLTL studio on 2/16/10, the very first day the cast & crew all reported to their new address at 320 West 66th street!  I was thrilled to get invited by the show to participate in this welcoming party that was jam packed with actors, press, fabulous food, and a video montage that Frank Valentini had put together with everything we have seen from OL over the past year to some things were are going see in the spring. Nice touch.
 
It seemed so surreal to me pulling up in a cab and seeing OLTL's name on the wall next to the View, didn't quite feel like home.  I had visited the AMC set once so I was kind of familiar with the surroundings, plus I  have attended the View plenty of times over the years, so being in that building was nothing new for me, but being there for One Life was!
 
I had a great time chatting with lots of actors over lunch, such as Scott Clifton, Florencia Lozano, Kristen Alderson, January LaVoy, Bob Woods, Terrell Tilford, Austin Williams with his wonderful family, Brittany Underwood, David Fumero, Brett Claywell, Brandon Buddy, Pat Elliot, Trevor St John, and loads of others!  Everyone was there, coming and going, but again, they were all there. Lots that I didn't get to talk to for any length of time, were passing by saying hello, it was great, it was like being at a mixing and mingling soap event, and of sorts, it was!    
 
The one thing that I always try to focus on when I am at the studio, whether it be now as president of the club or when I play the part of columnist past and present, is meeting a new actor, and this time I did in David Gregory (Ford).  He and I have been in lots of contact via email and even face book, but finally meeting face to face and having a nice long conversation was terrific.  He is a very nice guy and he loves the show, and his job and I do hope they keep him around for a long time, it will be a pleasure working with someone like him in the months ahead.  
 
I loved meeting Michael Fairman of On Air Soaps, and Dan Kroll of Soap Central. These are two gentlemen that I deal with a lot via the Internet for the fan club, and to finally meet them fact to face was great, we seemed like old buddies!
 
One of the other things I did get to see at the new digs were some of the sets up close. OL brought most of the their old sets down the street, but the space in which they film and work in, is twice the size per set.  I got a good look at Foxy Roxy's really cool, and it was a huge space, and I found that really impressive. The sets are like the size of rooms as compared to sets, so a huge step up for sure.
 
Alan Needleman, Larry Carpenter, Harry Zeidman, very important people!  All of my director friends. I loved hanging with them and getting the input from behind the scenes on their new home. They are the important people just as much as the actors as they are the glue that puts it together!  Saw our brilliant head writer Ron Carlivati, as well as the most talented daytime music composer ever, Paul Glass. I've gotten to know him pretty well over the past year, another person who works so hard for the show to please all the fans!   So much talent at OL its overwhelming at times to stand back and take it all in.
 
So this was a great afternoon. I want to thank OL publicist Lauri Hogan for the invite and to Frank Valentini for making me feel welcomed as he always does.  On our way out we all received a shirt that displays the logo of the invite (pictured with this article) that we received to come join in the fun, and they were passed out by Todd Garrin, Franks's assistant who is always of utmost help, it's always great to see him.  Again, and I can't say it enough, it was really an honor to be a guest for something special like this. Thanks to the company of Gabby Winkel (SOW) and Shayla Ward (SID), nice to hang with the soap gals!    
 
I am proud to be a part of the OLTL family, and I wish nothing but much luck and love to all the cast & crew in their new home...                         

The Tilford Art Group-NYC   by Diane 2/18/10

 
I just wanted to write a short piece on a wonderful afternoon I spent at NY's New Perspectives Theatre viewing a beautiful exhibit organized and run by Terrell Tilford our fabulous Dr. Greg Evans on OLTL.
 
This exhibit showcased the talents of emerging artists from New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles.
 
I attended this show with my friends Jeanne Cerrone and Vitina Varone and we so enjoyed every minute that we were there. The show ran for 3 days from Friday 2/12 to Valentine's day 2/14. Proceeds from the work that was sold was to raise money and benefit the New Perspective Theatre.
 
The art that was involved were done by Charly Palmer, Terrell's cousin, Bryan L Tilford, Terrell's brother, and friend Dianne Smith. Paintings that ranged from music such as Stevie Wonder to Miles Davis, abstract oil paintings, and a wide variety of history and African American culture.
 
Spending a Saturday afternoon with Terrell and his beautiful wife Victoria Platt was the best ever, they are just outstanding, exceptional, and gracious people. I cannot convey that enough.
 
I know that at the opening Friday night, John Paul Lavoisier, Farah Fath, and Sean Ringgold were on hand to support Terrell and his endeavors in showcasing this beautiful work, and also to benefit the New Perspectives Theatre. It meant a lot to him that cast members came out in his support.
 
I just wanted to share with you the nice afternoon that was had by all. Hopefully there will be more exhibits in the future. 
 
For upcoming exhibits at the theater, you can visit their website at www.newperspectivestheatre.org
 

 

What a Year!  by Diane

 
I am finally getting a chance to sit down and write something here for our wonderful website, and while there are so many thoughts going through my mind, I am mainly thinking about all of the changes and things that have gone on over this past year.  First off I want to say that in my first year as fan club president, I have really enjoyed myself, and now I am going into my second. 2009 was certainly a year of transition for the fan club and ABC in general.
 
While we have seen AMC leave us for LA, and OLTL moving down the street to the former Pine Valley residence, and as mentioned me taking over the fan club, there have been so many new adjustments, don't you think? But all seems to be falling into place all the way around the board.
 
OLTL has had a superb year.  The show has been better than ever.  Ron and Frank have given us so much to be grateful for and something well worth sinking our teeth into.  At a time when daytime in general seems to be questionable as for the fate of our shows, OL has pulled out all of the stops to strive to make it the best show in daytime and they have worked hard at achieving this great success.  While of course you can't please everybody, and now I can say that I know that for a fact, the writers have really taken a step back to look at what works and what doesn't.
 
The return of Mitch Laurence as played by the brilliant Roscoe Born really made the show gritty and edgy and has done well with the show's rich history.  We too have been treated to the first front burner gay storyline with the wonderful couple of Kyle & Fish, and not only has the storyline been ground breaking but it is realistic and done with great finesse and intelligence.  People who look for romance on soaps have sure gotten their share with this couple, I know I have.   Of course we lost a great actor in John Brotherton as Jared, but sometimes with a character elimination it just opens the door for a lot of great story to be told and in his case that is what happened, and it makes the return of Mitch possible, as well as bring forth other characters front and center, Charlie for one. Brian Kerwin is a fabulous actor and with the murder of his son it has given him tremendous story, and I'm all for that, he's far too good to be in the background.
 
The ongoing battle of the couples, the John and Natalie group and the Jared and Natalie group fought to the finish but if its John and Natalie the fans wanted together, so be it.  It's about ratings and doing what it takes to make it work, and OL has listened and provided all on that front.
 
So I will close this article at this point by saying, just like in every day life, you sometimes have to take the good with the bad and also make sacrifices to make things work, and looking at the show on a whole in the professional sense, OL has taken the right sacrifices to get us to this point.
 
My first year as president has been a challenge and pretty much a great one at that.  I am proud to run the club for a show that has been my back bone of daytime since day one, and while OL is going to be the last east coast show standing, I think that is something to be proud of...
 
Looking forward to all that's in store for 2010. So, to the cast and crew, I'd like to extend many thanks to all of you for your support and help in my first year as club president, and I wish you much luck and love in your new home...What a year it has been!          
 

 

 

"Sing Along With Mitch" by Diane 11/12/09
 
Welcome back Roscoe Born! It has only been a few days but I'll tell you this man is mesmerizing. Mitch Laurence is by far the most creepy character that ever lived in daytime, even when he is supposed to be dead! I have been waiting patiently for this resurrection , and to be honest when OLTL was not too sure who Rex's daddy was going to be Mitch, Carlo, or Spencer, I just had my fingers crossed that it was Mitch and Roscoe. I love Thom Christopher and Paul Satterfield dearly, but Carlo and Spencer no matter how evil they were could not match or compare to the loathsome nature of Mitch. Watching him sends chills down my spine and makes my skin crawl, but I love him, pretty twisted don't ya think? My eyes have been literally glued to  the screen upon his return.
 
It will be very interesting to see how his return all plays out. The show on a whole has been terrific leading up to this. I feel bad that Jared and John Brotherton will no longer be with us, and I wish him nothing but the best and will follow his career wherever it leads, but sometimes it takes the elimination of one character to build a huge umbrella storyline and I can see where it looks like this is happening. Ron Carlivati is going to have a blast writing this for sure.  Jared's departure is opening flood gates for the story to take off in all different directions of sadness, torture, and a whole lot of compelling drama.
 
So with that being said, everyone put up those umbrella's cause "Its Raining Mitch, Hallelujah!"
 
     
The ABC's of the Economy by Diane 10/15/09
 
In light of all of the changes in daytime these days for economical reasons of course, some interesting thoughts have popped into my mind as I am watching and reading some of the big changes going on right in front of my eyes on a daily basis, some things make sense as far as cutting costs, while others seem to make no sense at all. I mean I know that moving AMC to the west coast and moving OLTL down the street to the AMC building benefits both shows, or does it? I question this because us folks here on the east side of the country are stripped down to two shows come the new year, and that's kind of a frightening thought.
 
In a year when a 72 year old show such as GL was pulled off the air, to have these major changes at ABC just makes me think even harder. State of the art for both OLTL & ABC, what does it all mean?
 
To uproot a staple in daytime such as AMC and jog the lives of fans, but more so actors has been a huge shock to the system.
 
Like I said, some things add up while others don't. Is ABC really going to save money in the long run having some of the Pine Valley crew on flights back and forth to tape shows? Sounds kind of costly to me. Such favorites as Torsten Kaye, Beth Ehlers, Ray MacDonald (what's PV without Dr Joe?), and what about an actor like Aiden Turner with a huge fan base (I for one!) getting ready to make the move out there and they fire him? That really doesn't sound right to me either. I can't tell what's helping or what's hurting anymore, too many contradictions. Is Brian Scott Frons maybe flying without a net? Grasping at straws? Maybe he really doesn't have a clue as to which direction he is going in and is just taking a huge gamble.  
 
Just this week I read something that made me really ponder the thought BIG TIME about this whole budget thing, when I read that GH was bringing in James Franco a movie actor, and big box office to boot.  His most recent high grossing film was Pineapple Express in which he was nominated for a golden globe for his performance and also won and Emmy portraying James Dean a few years back.  I love him, I really do, he's a hunk and hunks matter  and don't get me wrong he is a great actor, but I don't think the price tag for him came on discount.  This one really made me scratch my head the most.
 
I made a prediction about 5 years ago, and I hope I am totally wrong about it.  I felt that when Soap Net came into play, it seemed apparent that the major networks were going to be phased out little by little where soaps were concerned especially as far as in the ratings.  So far this is all trickling down, just like the economy problems started, nothing happens over night.
 
Days & Y&R, have joined the Soap Net bandwagon, and of course  when it started out, it was strictly just an ABC network. So with that being said, and being coupled along with the whole LA thing, this kind of really makes me think. My conclusion? I think everything will eventually go to LA, and will run strictly on Soap Net, and the ones that can't fit out there may get canceled.  Scary thought but that has been my prediction thus far. I know nothing, this is just my theory.  Talk shows and game shows will prevail in the daytime major network time slots, and cable companies will profit as far as everyone will have to have digital in order to have Soap Net to watch their shows.
 
This is my take on the ABC's of Daytime and the economy, and some things just don't add up.          
 
    
2009 One Life Fan Club Party  by Diane  9/11/09
 
Finally I am getting around to composing some thoughts to sit down and write my piece regarding this years One Life to Live Fan Club Party, or should I say cruise? Now that weeks have passed and I am able to sort out everything about that day I have a clearer, keen sense of all that took place on Saturday afternoon 8/15/09.  First off the weather was just excellent, we could have not asked for a more perfect summer day. To everyone who came out to support this new venture fans and actors alike, it was much appreciated!
 
The party pretty much ran itself, and turned out to be not so bad after the initial chaos in the beginning. There was an agenda of sorts planned but it just never happened that way. However, because it was done for charity this year for St Jude Children's research and nearly $2500 was raised, I have to say for this first time effort, that part did turn out to be highly successful. Approximately 230 fans were in attendance and a wonderful group of actors as well. Kristen and Eddie Alderson, Farah & JP, Bree Williamson, Hillary B. Smith, Crystal Hunt, Jerry verDorn, John Brotherton, Shenell Edmonds, Carmen Loporto, Bret Claywell, Scott Evans, Scott Clifton, Sean Ringgold, Terrell Tilford, Patricia Elliot, Jack Rovello, Austin Williams, Brittany Underwood, Jason Tam, Michael Lowry, John Rue, & January LaVoy. I also had Phil and Clint with us as framed photos of these two beloved men were displayed.  All of these wonderful actors remained on board to set sail with the fans.  I have to thank three special women who came to greet the fans at the beginning of the day as due to other obligations could not stay when we took off, and they are Catherine Hickland, Ilene Kristen, and last but not least Robin Strasser. Robin had shown me tremendous support since day one and I want to thank her for all of the great things she did for the party as far as promoting it on her hotline, to donating not only lots of goodies such as OL Many Voices cd's and posters, but also for donating a shopping spree at Housing Works as an auction item.  She really thought of it all and I am proud to say that she was there for support, and it gave me great honor to have her be a part of it all, she is one class act! Ilene too gave us some posters for raffles, and Cat was there just to be Cat one of the nicest people out there, so thanks again to all three of you stunning ladies! Another thank you to Lauri Hogan, OLTL's publicist who helped me get things in order.
 
There were a lot of fun things that took place during the sail. First off, I could not have had a better host and MC than the extraordinary Alan Needleman. I have known Alan for years and I knew he was gonna be my host right from the start, funny, witty, and everyone on the show loves him! He kept the day alive and fun. Frank Valentini had sent a wonderful letter that he wanted to share with the fans, (as do to his motion sickness he could not attend) and it was read by Jerry. What can I say about Jerry? Great guy and he made everyone smile as he read Frank's tale with the friendly personality that Mr verDorn always bestows!  My VP Jean Suppa was able to get us one of the best auction items ever and they were dance lessons at Dance With Me Studios given by none other than MAKS from Dancing with the Stars!  Hillary treated us to a little dance with one of the lucky winners that was fun and cute.
 
Some of the raffle and auction items were scripts, tote bags, UV, Bonjour, and Rodi's tee shirts along with many other props from OL and lunches with actors, NY Met's Tickets,  NY Liberty package, A-Rod baseball, tickets for the Monkees Davy Jones at BB Kings in Manhattan, a picture with an actor of your choice in Soaps in Depth and SO Weekly, just to name a few, I think we did a good job there.
 
Susan Hoffman one of our friends that works for Build a Bear had bears donated, one of the best items of the day. We had a John McBain bear, Roxy bear & a OLTL bear.  Thank you Susan..Now there was a 4th bear that we decided to give as a gift to Alan, and it was an Alan Needleman bear. Looked just like him. Jeans, yellow tape on the pants, markers around his neck, Yankee jacket and glasses. He was touched, his wife Diane even loved it, and it was our way of saying thanks.
 
So we had actors mixing and mingling going from table to table chatting and taking pictures and just having fun. The saying "eat, drink and be merry" was what was going on aboard the Duchess on the Hudson River!  As I mentioned earlier,  the weather was just so beautiful, that at certain points of the day the actors were disappearing, going up on the deck to take in the sites, and our Lady Liberty looked extra beautiful that afternoon.   
 
I had a fabulous crew to help me, my friends are the greatest. Jeanne and Sandra kept it running smooth with the fans checking in, as did Judy giving each and every fan a goodie bag. My dear friend Clarence was just the best ushering the actors in. I knew we picked the right man for that job! His assistant Dawn was his back-up and she was a huge help as well. Everyone that did the raffles and silent auctions had the toughest job of all, and they pulled it off without a hitch. Peaches, Val, and Mary Lou are my team from doing the parties with Carol, they know the ropes big time!
 
In closing I just want to say again, thanks to all that supported me, it was a good time, far from perfect, but it was the first year and an experiment at the same time. Next year whether on land or at sea, it will again be for charity that is one thing I know will not change.
 
Over the 7 months of planning I spoke to probably each and every fan on the phone or the internet, and for me it was fun meeting a lot of them face to face.
 
Let's remember that $2500 for St Jude was really the big key, and for that reason alone it was more than a success in my book.  To the splendid cast of OLTL, I could not ask to work with a better group of actors, they truly are the greatest, on a day that I was a nervous wreck, they all made me feel at ease,  and an extra special thanks to Todd Garrin, and most of all to Frank V for all of the generosity, I am truly grateful.      

               

The 2009 Daytime Emmy's or the Vanessa Show? by Diane 8/31/09
 
It seemed like we soap fans and fans of daytime in general waited forever to catch this years Daytime Emmy show, and while we all know it had been a strange ride getting us  there this year, we finally made it, and somehow the show was even stranger than the time it took to get there!  OK the CW is a nice network with some nice programming, but for starters that's what I noticed, the commercial breaks were not regular commercials, the majority were all promos to network the CW shows, is this a good thing to help daytime I ask?
 
Vanessa Williams is a beautiful talented woman, but did we really need to see her sing and dance and appear in skits as much as we did? She was predominantly the whole show. OK dancing with Gilles, I'll give her that he is yummy to look at for sure, but other than that it was an overkill. What is happening here? Is everyone trying to bury daytime a little more each year?
 
Everyone's acceptance speeches were cut short, there were no clips of any kind showcasing the scenes our day timers submitted, and GL? What a disgrace! 72 years on TV and being canceled and that is what they called a tribute? Shameful!
 
The Red Carpet show looked more like a local news broadcast than anything you would normally see in the past in Hollywood, oh so disappointing. I don't know about you, but I always enjoyed the shoe cam. From a woman's standpoint that's a big loss!!!!
 
On the plus side my OLTL at least took home the gold for the directing (so well deserved) and Susan Haskell for lead actress was really a thrill (should have been Bree, too) Tamara Braun has been on so many shows in one year (GH, AMC, & Days) I forgot what show she was even on, I like her but I am sure her on screen time because of being in PC, PV & Salem in a short amount of time could not have been as much as Bree's screen time in Llanview!        
 
Vincent Irizarry's win was bittersweet and well deserving, and Jeff Branson for his current role as Shane on GL was a real treat...Huge fan of his...bring back Jonathan Lavery to Pine Valley, or create a new role for him on OLTL (or he'd make a good Joey....hint hint) 
 
Another plus as well was Daytime Gives Back. The whole segment with Tony Geary, Kelly Monaco, and Susan Lucci was moving and so important to show, and wonderful to see all the help our daytime community is doing to help feed starving children in Africa, outstanding job, along with a 40 year tribute to Sesame Street. It was so well deserving, and so much fun, and brought back the kid in all of us!
 
With all of this being said, it was for me a very sad state of affairs for the Daytime Emmy's. More should have been done for our soaps and less should have been done with a hostess that literally, STOLE THE SHOW!!!        

 

HBS Rocks!  By Diane 8/28/09

 
I just want to say what a wonderful time I had on 8/14 when I attended Hillary B Smith's party at the Playwright Tavern in Manhattan. Her party was just what I needed to take the jitters away from my party that was to take place the next day, and believe me it did. Lots of laughs and just a fun time took place during the 3 hours that we were there.
 
Hillary was just being Hillary at her best, one of the most easy going actors on OLTL. She is so gracious and giving to her fans. She spent time with each and every person that was there signing autographs posing for pictures, and just had some funny stories and jokes to tell with everyone present.
 
The food was fabulous, and she had two surprise guests Catherine Hickland and Daphne Duplaix. The crowd was pleasantly surprised to see them. They also stayed long enough for pictures and autographs, and of course when Hill and Cat get together its always fun, they make a great comedy duo, and boy did we laugh! Another highlight was when Hill read a text message she received from Nathan Purdee (Hank), as he was invited to attend but could not get away and wanted to share his thoughts with Hillary and all of us, and that was a nice added treat.   
 
The small personal events are always the best especially when they are well coordinated.  This one certainly was, and it was mostly all to do with the wonderful girls Hillary has running her fan club and website.
Angela Zilafro and Jenn Kaiser!  I have known these two wonderful women very well via the internet since the beginning of the year right after being named the new President of the OLTL Fan Club. I feel like I have known both of them forever, and to see them face to face was a thrill for me, as well as Angela's daughter Dani who was there to support her mom. They put on a wonderful event. Hillary had great things to say about both of her girls, "her angels", as she had identified them to me, so sweet, and so right-on!!  This club has been in existence for 10 years thanks to them. Angela is a super club president, and Jenn puts together a beautiful website and it is much appreciated. We all sang a little happy birthday to Angela who's birthday was in May and for all the work she had done to put this event together, Hillary and Jenn wanted the fans to let her know just how they felt, very touching! 
 
I would also like to add that this was a charity event in which the money was raised for the The Willie-Coppee Fund. This is a wonderful organization that was founded by Hillary and her best friend Lindsay Harrison in memory of their beloved pets, Hillary's Willie, and Lindsay's Coppee.  This organization was founded for people who need assistance in paying astounding veterinary bills to keep their pets alive and well. Excellent charity. You can visit their website at www.williecoppeefund.blogspot.com for more info.  The party raised $1,200 for the charity and we were all treated to beautiful T-Shirts for being a part of this wonderful event, to show our love for Willie and Coppee, and above all else our love for Hillary!
 
Thanks to Hillary and guests for making this afternoon so much fun, and to my dear friends and "angels" Angela and Jenn for putting together such a wonderful event, and also for being such a HUGE help to me at my party, I am ever so grateful for that, more than you know, and also to Hillary for all the support she had given me since day one. I'd say a great time was had by all!
             

 

Keeping it Real... by Diane 8/28/09
 
In viewing the August 27 episode of One Life to Live, I have to comment not only on the romance of one of my favorite Llanview couples, Viki and Charlie, as they are most certainly as romantic as you can get, but also on the wonderful job the show is doing in showcasing a pair that are undoubtedly so true to life and real, and are right on target when pleasing the mature viewers.
 
I love the way they are so relaxed ,and the scenes with them in their bedroom showing them being in love by doing simple things,  like Viki reading and Charlie doing an architectural draft while both wearing their bifocal glasses, just solidified the fact that these two are being portrayed like the majority of the over 50 set, in the way they live their lives everyday. 
 
Another thing that stood out for me as well was something understated that Viki was doing but was prominent enough to see, and that being while she and Charlie were discussing the importance of why she should run for mayor against incumbent Mayor Lowell, they were showing her taking her medications. Now whether the fans who are reading this are people taking medications or not, your parents, or at least the majority of them do this on a daily basis.  These two are being captured as the closest thing to reality of a mature romance in daytime mirroring real life.
 
I love them, and I love the wonderful job Ron Carlivati and staff are doing to make this couple so easy to identify with. So real you forget you are watching a fictitious pair....Bravo to the writers, and also to Erika Slezak and Brian Kerwin for their above human portrayals, they really are keeping it real...          
11th Annual Celebrity Softball Game by Diane Casale  6/13/09
 
 
Once again I made it a point to make my trip out to Midwood High School in Brooklyn on June 6, to watch the softball game between ABC & CBS for the charity of Tammy Rubin Rice, Shorefront Friends for Hospice.  Each year this event proves to be so much fun as the game is always unpredictable and you never know quite what's going to happen from pitch to pitch and inning to inning!  I had my usual spot in the dugout where I could watch the game up close. Their was a nice turnout of actors from both networks again this year. Actors from AMC, OLTL, GL, & ATWT were all on hand.
 
There were a lot of highlights of the afternoon, but for me seeing a lot of the newer cast members on OLTL was a big thrill. Brett Claywell (Kyle) and Scott Evans (Fish) were a lot of fun, especially Brett. He spent a lot of time talking with me about the show and how much he is enjoying himself and has a lot of storyline ahead of him. He was so impressed when I told him about my mother being a true One Tree Hill Fan, and as soon as she saw him appear on OL for the first time, she knew him right away, he said my mom has a "keen eye", very cute, very nice. I also love being around Scott Clifton (Schuyler) he is so friendly and upbeat, and is truly great with the fans. The other actors from OL that were in attendance were Jack Rovello (Justin), Jason Tam (Markko), Brittney Underwood (Langston) Austin Williams (Shane), Shenell Edmonds (Destiny), and Terrell Tilford (Gregory), who was accompanied by his beautiful wife Victoria G Platt. Most GL watchers will remember her as Vicky Spaulding, and than she had a brief stint on AMC in 1996 as Corinne Elroy.  When Terrell was on GL as David, that's where he and Victoria met, and the rest is history! They are one beautiful super couple inside and out. Spent lots of time with both of them and I kept Victoria company during the game. Very nice. Dawn Williams, Austin's mom is always a pleasure to be around, and Shenell had lots of family with her including her little brother!
 
The MC this year for the game was BethAnn Bonner currently on GL as Natasha and she was our ex Talia on OL, and is sorely missed, needless to say the GL fans were happy to see her, but the OLTL fans were even happier, and expressed just how much she is missed in Llanview.
         
On to AMC, they had two actors in attendance both newcomers as well, Brittney Allen (Marissa), and Adam Mayfield (Scott).  I spent lots of time with Adam and when I heard AMC was going to recast the role of Scott, I was one of the people that was praying that it would have been Forbes March who before joining OL was Scott Chandler, however, I am now happy that Forbes found a spot on ATWT, and Adam is on AMC. He is a superb actor, and has already been showing us his in depth range on screen, being thrust right into a storyline surrounding his dad Stuart Chandlers death...BRAVO!    He is a super guy,and it was my pleasure to get up close and personal with him. Brittney seemed thrilled to be there and was in awe of the fan support she was receiving being a new character in Pine Valley. She and Brett spent lots of time chatting and its nice to see two new actors on both of our ABC shows connecting and making friends, all one big happy family! 
 
The game was fun, HR's being hit all over the place and lots of beer being consumed!  That's always what makes it so much fun. Lots of auction items and raffles took place to raise money for the foundation. In fact a whopping total of $7,000 was raised, pretty successful I'd say!
 
From CBS such actors a Caitlan van Zandt, Michael Park, & Billy Magnussen were there, just to name a few, as their were tons!   
 
All in all this was a fun day, spending time with familiar faces and new ones. Lots of money raised, and a good time had by all! By the way for the first time in ages CBS beat ABC, ready for this score? 24-22, yes it was baseball not football guys, but just honest and true good clean fun! Hope my ABC regains their title in 2010!    

 

　

MY VISIT TO THE ONE LIFE TO LIVE STUDIO - Lisa Nix (June 4, 2009)

　    I visited the OLTL studio on Friday, May 29th. I met Melissa Archer in the lobby of the studio at 10:15a. As soon as I walked in, I saw John Brotherton and “Brody” sitting in the lobby. I smiled at John and said hello. Melissa was already dressed and made up for her scenes. She wore a beautiful royal blue dress. John saw me give Melissa the basket that I made for her and she was thrilled. It was beautifully wrapped in cellophane with our signature red and gold Campbell’s ribbon. The basket had 3 cans of chicken noodle soup (her favorite), a Campbell’s watch, Godiva chocolates and truffles, a small ceramic Campbell’s chef, free coupons, a soup mug, Pepperidge Farm goldfish and cookies in it. Melissa first took me to her dressing room which she shares with “Layla”. The room was about the size of a powder room. Melissa opened her gift basket, and I took a picture of her. We then went to wardrobe and hair and make-up. Melissa told the two women who worked in there and Robin Strasser that I was visiting and worked for Campbell’s. The make-up person said jokingly, “Did you bring us some Tomato Soup”? Robin Strasser was getting her hair done. Melissa then took me to an open area where I sat while she went upstairs. I was just fascinated seeing the actors come and go. The make-up woman came out and we had a nice conversation. She actually complimented me on my makeup. Then Kassie DePaiva walked in. She was wearing a white robe (with ABC Daytime written on it) and her hair was in curlers. Melissa then comes back and introduces me to Kassie and told her that I work for Campbell’s. Kassie immediately shakes my hand, kisses me, and said that she was going to get their PR person to let her know that I was in the building. I told Kassie that I remember when she visited Campbell’s last year to kick-off our Red Dress campaign. During our conversation, “Tea” walks in, wearing no make up. The actress who plays “Blair’s” mother came in and took something from the refrigerator. I also had a chance to talk to the young black girl who plays “Matthew’s” friend, “Destiny”. I told her that I was hoping to meet her, as I love her on the show. Good to see some diversity. Bob Woods also came in and took something from the refrigerator. (more on him later). Melissa then takes me to the studio to watch her tape her scenes. On our way there, Erika Slezak walks out, wearing a beautiful red dress. She’s a CLASS ACT! Melissa introduces me to her, and mentions Campbell’s. Erika said that Campbell’s has been very good to them. After we arrive down in the studio, the executive producer, Frank Valentini was giving instructions to the actors who were in the upcoming scene that was about to be taped. Melissa introduced me to all of the actors and Frank (who is a DOLL!!!) He shook my hand, kissed me and warmly said “Welcome to Llanview”. We talked about Campbell’s and he said, Be honest, out of all of the ABC soaps, which one executed Campbell’s brands into their storylines the best? Of course, I said One Life to Live!! I was standing around with the actors before they started to tape the scene. Frank asked me if I knew “Rachel” (Nora’s daughter). He introduced me and said he didn’t remember if her scenes had aired. I told him, yes, I’ve seen her on the show many times. It was SOOOO obvious that this group gets along together very well. They begin to tape the scene (which is a party celebrating Clint and Nora’s engagement). They had me sitting on a sofa next to Hillary B Smith and Bob Woods and we were watching them tape. Bob asked if I was an actress because he thought that I looked like one. (Isn’t THAT a joke?) He thought that I came from hair and make-up! I laughed and said that I’m not an actress (he looked at Hillary and jokingly said “neither are we”). I told them both that I work for Campbell’s and their faces lit up. Hillary asked me if I drew the “short straw” to come to the studio. I told her NO, and that I wanted to!! J I told her all about my job. She said that she LOVES our products, especially the heart-healthy ones, because her kids have minor heart problems. Bob asked if I look at the show everyday and I told him YES! He told Hillary that it’s good to know that normal people like me watch, because they thought that only prisoners were their only viewers. We all laughed. I told him that my husband works in law enforcement and Bob said “I bet he has lots of stories to tell”. He works in the prison unit of a hospital so it’s not as bad as an actual prison. Frank then told everyone QUIET on the set. Bob jokingly said “Lisa is making us talk!”. I fell in love with Bob and Hillary. Eddie Alderson (“Matthew”) walks in and Bob tells him that I was a special visitor today. We shook hands. He’s such a CUTE and personable young boy. After Melissa taped her short scene, she introduced me to Bree Williamson (who is absolutely BEAUTIFUL), “Brody”, John Brotherton, Jerry verDorn, “Rachel” and Sean Ringgold (Blair’s bodyguard). ALL were extremely nice and pleasant people. Shawn and I had a great conversation about the city. He’s another personable one! He asked where I lived and he said that he’d love to live in the suburbs, however he doesn’t have enough money yet. He lives in Queens. Frank then tells everyone (very nicely) not to eat the props until all of the scenes were taped. They had a large platter of fruit on the table and glasses of champagne (which was really ginger ale). As they were setting up for the next scene, I noticed that Eddie Alderson was in his wheelchair spinning around in circles and playing around with the young actress who plays “Destiny”. Bob, Hillary, Eddie, “Destiny” and the rest of the others then tape a scene at the actual engagement party. Melissa is now done for the day and she then takes me to the control room (I’ve never seen so many buttons in my life - - very technical). All of the guys who work in there were very nice! Everyone wanted soup! The tour then ended. I’ve sent “nice to meet you “cards to Bob, Hillary, Sean, and Kassie. I had already given a thank you card to Melissa along with the Campbell’s basket. I’ve sent Bree a congratulations card on her Emmy nomination and sent “Destiny” an African American Campbell kid doll earlier this week. I plan to write Frank Valentini a letter on Campbell’s stationary before the end of the day today to thank him for his hospitality. I am so impressed with his entire production. They were ALL so very warm, pleasant and complimentary of Campbell’s. They really went out of their way to make me feel welcome! After leaving the building, I saw “Starr” and “Langston” leaving the ABC building directly across the street from the studio with their lunch. Also saw Kassie (now beautifully dressed) Susan Haskell and Robin Strasser with their lunch. Crystal Hunt and Jerry verDorn were walking
 down the street after leaving the studio. I had a salad at an Italian restaurant at 70th and Columbus Avenue and saw John Brotherton and “Brody” walking down the street (not together). It was a very, very memorable day!!!

 

 

Here's The Story...by Diane

It was such a treat to have Catherine Hickland come to my hometown of Union, NJ to do an autograph signing and discussion to promote her book "The 30-Day Heartbreak Cure". Cat has been touring the country since January to promote this gem of a spiritual self-help book that lets you find peace within yourself and also advises you on ways to deal with losses in your life whether it be due to a relationship break-up, loss of a job, or loss of a loved one, or any other crisis that may occur in your life that will leave you in a depressed down state. Good book, good advice Cat gives for sure. She took questions from many of the fans that are having serious problems in their lives and really gave them some peace of mind.

While she had done so many big stores such as Barnes and Noble and Borders, doing the independent stores is a huge plus. Here's The Story is a store that I have supported over the many years that I have lived in this town, and I am so glad that Cat came to see what its all about. My friend Joe Leo runs it and he did a wonderful job hosting the event, he's a real natural. The few hours that this signing took place was jam packed with all kinds of fun and surprises. Cat did photos with everyone, taped a segment for a local NJ TV network, hypnotized one of the fans (as this has become part of the healing process that she is involved in), and even sang a little version of "Happy Anniversary" to Joe's parents Frank and Joann Leo that on that day of 5/3 celebrated their 40th anniversary. It was a very spontaneous afternoon. We loved having Cat, and she loved Union, NJ and wants to come back soon, and we would love to have her. So for anyone who wants to read a beneficial book for self-help, and wants to learn more about being in touch with themselves, this is the book to own, a must have.

The day was a delightful, enlightening, and a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon.  We also received some of Cat's wonderful Cat Cosmetics lip glosses to make the event even more complete!  Cat is one classy woman inside and out. 

 

Exclusive interview with Nathan Fillion (ex-Joey Buchanan)

Diane:  Has Castle been renewed for a second run as of yet?

Nathan:  Nope, not yet, but I sure hope so, I love doing this show!

Diane:  What other projects have you been involved in that we may not know about?

Nathan: My latest project was replacing my garage door motor!  I had lost all the clocker's to the old 
            one, and they don't use the same frequencies anymore.  The new one has all the bells 
            and whistles.  Well, the whistles cost more, so I might get them next year! :-)

Diane:  What's it like to have a prime time show that you are literally the "STAR" of on Castle?

Nathan: It is both exactly what you might imagine it to be like, and at the same time, nothing
            like that at all.

Diane:  Besides Castle, you have had a few other series, which one prior has been your favorite?  

Nathan: All of my jobs have taught me something important.  OLTL was the one that nurtured
            and prepared me the most, but the one that was the most all out fun was "Firefly", hard
            to compare to spaceships, horses, and guns!

Diane:  It was such a pleasure having you back on OLTL for a while last summer to celebrate
           the show's 40th anniversary, and Joey Buchanan has always been such an integral part
           of the show, with that being said, if the show approaches you again for another return,
           would you consider it?

Nathan: So long as there are people I care about at OLTL, I'll always go back, it's like Canada,
             I haven't lived there in over a decade, but its still HOME to me.

Diane:   Finally, can you tell us a little about your family on Castle?

Nathan:  With that question you hit it right on the head, when things go as smooth as they do
             on Castle, that makes them my family.


Note:  This was fun to do, Nathan is a great guy, always enjoyed meeting him, and loved his 
          interaction with the fans of One Life To Live. He was a big part of the show for so long,
          and I know that even though it did not come up in this interview, he deeply felt the loss
          of his long time co-workers, Phil Carey & Clint Ritchie.    
       

    

 

Have a Seat!!!! by Diane 4/9/09

This is a little piece I am contributing as I have never laughed so hard and out loud at OLTL in a very long time, that is not since the episode that aired this past week on 4/7 which involved the return once again of David Vickers play oh so brilliantly by the fabulous Tuc Watkins!  I have to commend the writers for coming up with once again something that was just so clever, and only OLTL could think of something crazy like this!

David in California getting his big acting break in a commercial, wearing a tux and looking so suave and debonair to find out that he was doing an ad for hemorrhoids!  Now, I was in advertising for a good part of my life which a lot of you know, and while viewing I was thinking of what a great campaign slogan I was about to listen to that was designed to promote this product, for some handy dandy little invention called "Have a Seat."  I mean with David Vickers you just knew it was going to be something side splitting, and it did not disappoint! 

Come on everyone repeat along with me..."Just one swipe of the wipe, and you'll be sitting on top of the world!" Now is that great or what? Priceless!

I just needed to write this to sing the praises of the excellent writing for this spot and also to say I just love when Tuc comes back to town, its always something much welcomed, and certainly unpredictable.  While One Life has been so sad and serious these days, this pick me up is just  what the doctor ordered. It left me with needing a box of tissues to wipe with more than just one swipe the tears that were rolling down my cheeks, while watching a commercial to advertise a product for the other set of them!  ;-)

I needed a laugh and it surely was provided!  So with that being said, I am going to "have a seat" and get ready to watch today's One Life to Live!    
 

An Inspiration   by Diane 3/20/09

Hello to my fan club members. I know I have been delinquent in writing an article or two for our fan club site, and for that I apologize. I have been beyond the point of super busy since taking over the club at the beginning of the year!  

As of late I have been very moved and inspired by so many things that have been going on, on OLTL. The show is excellent, sad and depressing at times, but so  are a lot of our lives in reality. 

While the acting as a whole could not be any better with the brilliant performances by every single cast member (and I mean that whole heartedly), I am writing this in praise of our young actors who are playing the most challenging roles at this point in time. Eddie Alderson and Austin Williams are tremendous in their respective parts of Shane and Matthew, and are doing a heck of a job. Being paralyzed and having leukemia are tall orders for adult actors to play, needless to say it must be even taller for these two young ones, but they are just stellar. 

Both are so realistic in their portrayals that as sad and tragic as these topics are, I cannot wait to see how these two storylines unfold.

Rising stars are both Austin and Eddie. Lets not forget these boys are movie actors as well. Austin has done a few, but Michael Clayton with George Clooney earned him much recognition on the big screen, and our Eddie, watching him growing up right in front of our eyes on OL, and seeing the  mature young man and actor he has become is amazing.  I was proud of him as last year he co-starred in two major motion pictures, Reservation Road, and one of the biggest and best films of the year in Changeling, saw these films, and the guys were awesome.

That is why I had to take the time out to write this because I have been so truly moved by these boys for doing some of the best work ever in roles that are so heartbreaking, but so true to life.

Daytime is filled with young talent, however I am honored that OLTL has two of the best if not the best younger actors out there... They deserve all of the credit in the world for what they are doing, so much so that I had to take time out to acknowledge them, and that's how much they have been an inspiration to me.         

 
Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll -- Diane 1/24/09
 
These days Llanview has it all, and as always I am loving every minute of it. The show is dealing with so many important social issues, and at the same time is providing us with lots of sex and music.
 
One of my favorite bands from the 80's were Ian Dury & The Blockheads, and they made the song "Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll" famous. It actually became an anthem for some back in that decade, and right now I feel that should be the anthem for OLTL.
 
We have plenty of sex between Rex and Gigi and John and Blair, and our new/old favorite "Marty the Party Girl", she is always flirting with that notion, just like she did in the old days!   Drugs? Wow, what a storyline we are getting into at the moment with pills, marijuana, and anything else that's going to make you high. Matthew, Cole, and Llanview High teacher Schuyler Joplin (played so brilliantly by Scott Clifton),  are all at the helm of this story and its a very important issue to address with the teen set. BRAVO!
 
Rock & Roll? There has been a lot of that going on these days at Ultra Violet. We have been entertained as of late by such new hot bands as Puddle of Mudd and The Plain White T's. Somehow Ron Carlivati knows how to blend it all together, and make it all work out the right way.
 
I have been enjoying the show enormously, and while you wait for it not to be as consistently good, that just doesn't happen, it just gets better and better every day.
 
So my motto is:  "Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll...Are Very Good Indeed!"       

 

Romance Is Bliss -- Diane Casale

 
I once again feel I have to recognize our gem of OLTL in a different light of storytelling other than the intrigue and intense drama that they have been providing us with day in and day out over the past year. Don't get me wrong, I love the enthralling hard driven drama, but every now and then just like we need a little laughter, we too, need a little romance in daytime to get lost in a some happy fantasy. I mean originally that's what soaps were made up of romance and love. The good old days!
 
I enjoyed the Christmas episodes the most in this department, and the love story between two of my favorites Natalie and Jared. Just think getting socks for Christmas and having an engagement ring put in the bottom of one, so sweet. Melissa Archer and John Brotherton have some of the best chemistry I have seen to date on OLTL, and they play it so real and they are so natural in the way they portray these characters. I just love them. My other favorites in the romance department in Llanview are Viki and Charlie. Now them I really identify with, me being the ripe old age of 51 and all. :-)   Even the more mature set on the show can still provide that magnetic energy that just jumps off the screen. Erika has had a lot of mates on OLTL over the years, however, she and Charlie are my all time favorites. Brian Kerwin is so genuine, and a pure pleasure to watch.  Again, they have that chemistry that cannot easily be found in everyone. Sheer magic by this wonderful foursome.
  
So to Ron Carlivati thank you for giving us something sweet to dig our teeth into. Drama is the best way to go, but mixed with tender romance is something that we all need to get lost in, and the blend has been superb. The writing for these characters has been excellent, real, and natural. Alas, romance is bliss...  

 

Laughter IS The Best Medicine  :-)  by Diane Casale  12/5/08

While I have been totally enthralled and captivated by the powerful storylines and superb acting OLTL has churned out during the month of November, most of the storylines have been very serious and very gut-wrenching to say the least.  While I love the intense drama of it all, in a time when our world at large is in such a down state, its good to get lost in not only fantasy, but as we all know, its always a good thing to laugh. Now here we are in the beginning of December, and OLTL has been putting a smile back on my face and has even made me laugh out loud as of late. The shows have been featuring Ilene Kristen a lot these days, and she is always a scene stealer, and with her own way of "Roxy" language, she always  makes me grin from ear to ear, and I have always maintained, that she is is a wonderful original daytime creation & character, and so far for me this month another huge highlight is the return of Moe and Noelle, played with so much fun by January LaVoy and John Rue.  

One of the best storylines that OLTL has done over the past year was the whole Paris Texas storyline and the unique Bon Jour Cafe'.  Now I am just loving every minute of Carlotta's new and rebuilt Angel Square Diner as the Buenos Dias Cafe', that resident Charlie Banks (Brian Kerwin) had built for his woman Viki (Erika Slezak) to show his love for her and recapture their meeting in Paris Texas. How romantic is that? But as I said this too brought so many laughs with Moe and Noelle in Llanview.

Poor Noelle getting her hair done at Foxy Roxy's, oh boy did I laugh at that outcome, but I'll tell you, I laughed so hard that I was crying at the scene when Moe finally saw what his fiance' looked like!
His reaction was priceless never mind the dialogue. When he looked at her and said "Noelle, what happened? It looks like you put an egg beater to your head!", well I nearly died with laughter, and tears were rolling down my face!  It felt good to cry tears of joy instead of sadness at OLTL for a change, this was absolutely hysterical. 

I love John and January and I think they should pack their bags and move from Paris Texas, and come and work for Carlotta permanently!

As stated, you cannot beat OLTL for their compelling drama, but with all of the tragedy that has taken over Llanview lately, comedy sometimes is a great way to go, enjoyed every minute of it and would like a little more, because laughter is the best medicine.     
  
November Sweeps  by Diane Casale 11/7/08

I am writing this in regards to both OLTL and AMC, to say that the writing on both shows as of late has been impeccable. November as we know it in soap land is a very important month for tying up many storylines and loose ends, that we watch culminate from the many months prior.  As you all well know I am a huge fan of Ron Carlivati so its a given for me to express the excitement that OLTL has been giving us. On the other hand, AMC for months was just kind of giving us lack luster story, something that we are not conditioned to for long periods of time, however, now since Charles Pratt has taken over, the show is getting back on track quickly and as a long time fan and supporter of the show that pleases me in a big way.

The tornado that rocked Pine Valley was so well done, and the effects were more than realistic. The death of Babe Chandler, the return of David Hayward, the birth of baby Gabrielle by most welcomed return character Bianca Montgomery, now with her fiancé Reese by her side, played by powerhouse actress Tamara Braun, have made for great surprises. The biggest surprise of all is that Zach Slater is the father of the baby, and that will be really great storytelling once that secret is revealed.

On OLTL of course for months the biggest story getting ready to explode is that of Todd and Marty. I know that fans have not been too pleased with the direction that OL has gone in with this based on the history of the two characters, however, in a twisted way I have enjoyed it, and as sick as it may have seemed to some, this payoff is going to be huge. Somehow in my heart of hearts, I do believe that Marty has made Todd see the good in him that he always says is there. Tess being back and settling a vendetta against sister Natalie and her love Jared for killing Nash has been exciting complete with a secret room, and dynamite!   I particularly enjoyed the way that Viki figured out where Jared and Natalie were, that was beyond clever when her alto ego Jean appeared. It wasn't that hard to figure out at that point based on what Jean had done to Dorian in her "secret room" a few years back. Seeing Niki as a figment of Tess's imagination too was a plus. Erika Slezak is the master of alter egos, and it was a real treat to see them brought back for a few days.   Starr's birth has been the other much anticipated story waiting to explode, and their will be HUGE repercussions that are going to involve a large core of the cast. The whole scam with Ray Montez and Clint Buchanan was just superb drama. Watching Clint unravel and become more and more like "Pa" Asa as time goes on, has been a pleasure to watch.

Both shows have so much to offer currently, and kudos to both of them for addressing storylines involving our current war situation in Iraq. For months we have watched OL's Brody struggle with his past serving time over there, and currently the character of Taylor on AMC is supplying us with her battle in that god forsaken place. The day that AMC had the real life war hero's on that lost arms and legs from the trauma of the war brought me to tears. At no time either did I ever think that Pratt was trying to lift the ratings by capitalizing on such a horrible time in our lives, I looked at it as a dose of reality which is what it is.

The payoffs are big in Llanview and Pine Valley, and to my favorite writer Ron Carlivati, and to the talented Charles Pratt I give my utmost gratitude for not only providing entertainment but most of all providing, we the viewers with gritty and gutsy story. I do still and always will maintain that I am proud to be a daytime viewer, and this has been some of the best stuff ever.  While all involved have been brilliant, my actors nods go to Bree Williamson and Jacob Young. While everyone has been outstanding these two have been beyond outstanding, Emmy's for 2009! Get ready for a wild ride in November, and HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!
 

 

 The 5th Annual Daytime Stars and Strikes by Diane Casale

On September 28, 2008, I once again attended one of my favorite soap events and that's the Stars and Strikes event, successfully in its 5th year.  This event is special because not only do you get to see a ton of your favorite daytime actors, but because all of the money they raise goes to the American Cancer Society. This is such an important charity for so many because all of us have someone in our lives, family, friends, past, or present who have battled this dreaded disease. I lost my dad to colon cancer 16 years ago, so anytime I can donate, I do, and on this day, lots of money was raised and we had a lot of fun doing it, and it made it all the more so worthwhile.

This year we were back at the newly renovated Leisure Time Lanes facility in NYC's Port Authority. The place looks beautiful and classy. The event was hosted by Jerry verDorn and Liz Keifer, and run by event coordinator Wendy Madore who along with her staff did a stellar job. Upon entry of the lanes, we all received Stars and Strikes back packs filled with lots of goodies!  Jerry & Liz together once again were terrific. They have a true friendship and a connection that will remain for life, even though Jerry now has been with OLTL for a few years.  It's nice because they are able to keep this event going because of their relationship and also involve AMC and ATWT fans and actors as well.  Beth verDorn was there as always, and this year had her mom Virginia Stewart with her to support Jerry and the cause.

Actors such as Bradley Cole, Rob Bogue, Jordan Clarke, Mandy Bruno, Gina Tagnoni, John Driscoll, Crystal Chappell, Kane Manera, and Murray Bartlett were some of the actors on hand, as well as many others from GL, a great turnout by that show. ATWT had such cast members as Billy Magnussen, John Prescott, Mick Hazen, and Ewa da Cruz just to name a few, as they had quite a group too.

Now on to ABC, our AMC bowlers were, Alexa Gerasimovich (little Kate Martin), Chrishelle Stause, Daniel Kennedy, Sterling Suileman, Amanda Baker, Denise Vasi, and Beth Ehlers. OLTL scored big with a super turnout. This is quite a list.  Brandon Buddy, Kristen Alderson, Brittney Underwood, Justis Bolding, Hillary B. Smith, Brian Kerwin, Beth Ann Bonner, Bree Williamson (with her new hubby), Chase Coleman, Austin Williams, Tia Dionne Hodge (angel Mel), Sean Riggold, January La Voy, and Melissa and David Fumero. Excellent.

Just about every actor there bowled. Jerry did not. He opted to mix and mingle and spent a lot of time with fans all day long, talking, signing autographs, and posing for pictures. He's a great guy and I am getting to know him a lot better since he joined OLTL. I used to attend GL gatherings in the past and new him a little than, but not like now since he made the move from Springfield to Llanview! Such a gentleman, and the fans really appreciate him. One of the actors who made a brief appearance was Brian Kerwin. Brian is still doing his play "August" on Broadway, and decided to stop by the lanes in between rehersals  to see his fans, and support Jerry as they are very good friends. Very noble of him indeed. I had a nice chat with Daniel Kennedy of AMC. He's a nice kid, and I love the new spin he is giving to the character of Pete Cortlandt. He's a lot of fun to watch. Brandon Buddy and I got caught up (he's my young boyfriend at OLTL, did you know that?) He was telling me a litt le bit about some upcoming story on the show that is going to be really exciting. Sean Riggold is always one of the best people to be around. So upbeat.  I took a picture of Wendy being lifted up effortlessly by him. I know how she felt suspended in mid air as I had that done to me by him at OL's fan party this year. He is so strong and everyone forgets that his other job and first job before OL and acting is that he is a professional body guard. The fans just love him!

Some of the other memorable moments were seeing the girls together again, Beth, Gina, and Liz, it was a little reunion of  GL and OLTL, and seeing newly married Melissa (ex Gallo) and David Fumero together was a nice treat, as these two were a surprise, and not on the original list of the actors who were to attend.   

Getting on to the main reason why we were all there that day, and that was to raise lots of money. There were so many raffle & auction items galore from all four shows, lots of scripts and memorabilia. AMC had great stuff like a dress that was donated by Rebecca Budig of Greenlee's and books of "Charmed" signed by Alicia Minshew's Kendall Hart, and Amanda Baker raised money for cancer by auctioning off a phone call with a fan, that's going to be a lot of fun.

One of the clever auction items from OLTL was that of a pie that was baked by Noelle at the famous Bon Jour Cafe in Paris Texas, and January was able to collect $40 for that delicious gem. She is one of my new favorites, a real sweetheart.  

Tours are always the big thing, ATWT did well. OLTL did excellent as they did three different tours. January is doing one for $400, and than two actors who were not in attendance, Robin Strasser and John Brotherton also donated tours and they were auctioned off for $400 each, not too shabby.

The biggest bid for tours went to GL as the "Aussie" boys Murray Bartlett (Cyrus) and Kane Manera (Grady) auctioned off two tours each totaling $3,000.00!!!!  WOW!!!!!

The money that was raised for cancer research that day was over a whopping $11,000.00!  That was the biggest success of all. Thanks to all of the wonderful actors and fans that made this possible.

This event was great from start to finish. My friends Jeanne and Judy were with me as always, and my out of state friends that come in for this, Clarence from Michigan, and Janice all the way from Georgia, it was so good to spend time with them.

Many thanks again to Wendy for giving it her all and making this a day to remember, and a huge success.

A job well done by Liz and Jerry.  The game was so much fun that it took my mind off of the NY Met's ending their season on that day, as well as Jerry's, both die hard fans we are!  The most important thing that day was helping raise money to fight cancer, a goal that was surely accomplished. 

Just for the record....ABC were the bowling winners!!!!  Jerry has the trophy's to prove it. See you all next year without a doubt, and lets pray that we can find a cure for cancer.
 

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